Cut out that cot clutter say experts

COLOGNE (dpa) – To make sure that babies don’t overheat or suffocate while sleeping, their cot should be nearly empty during the first year of life, advises Germany’s Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA).

They need no pillow. A sleeping bag – armless versions are available – is better than a blanket, which a baby could pull over his or her head.

Parents who prefer a blanket should tuck it securely under the foot of the mattress with just enough length to cover the baby’s chest, the BZgA says.

Fond parents, who worry that chilly nights might harm the baby, have been known to pack cribs with hot-water bottles, heating pads, thick blankets and animal hides such as lambskin.

But BZgA says the extra gear is usually unnecessary. An ideal sleeping temperature is 16 to 18 degrees Celsius.

To make sure that babies don’t overheat or suffocate while sleeping, their cot should be nearly empty during the first year of life. EPA